Exploring Men's Mental Health Through Poetry with Colton Van Baale

In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant speaks with Colton Van Baale, known online for his impactful spoken word as Poetry by Colton. Colton shares his journey into poetry, sparked by a mix of personal trials and support from friends. They discuss his debut book, 'Let's Talk About It,' which delves into men's mental health in a raw and emotional manner.

Colton also reads powerful excerpts from his book and shares his thoughts on the importance of speaking up about mental struggles. The conversation touches on the significance of community, authenticity, and taking time for oneself.

00:00 Introduction: Breaking the Silence

00:24 Meet the Host: Andy Grant

00:37 Guest Introduction: Colton Van Baale

00:52 Colton's Poetry and Impact

01:21 Colton's Journey into Poetry

05:04 The Power of Sharing and Community

06:46 Reading 'Speak Up'

09:45 The Purpose of the Book

12:26 Colton's Personal Struggles and Support

14:39 Building a Supportive Community

16:41 Lessons from a Firefighter's Struggles

17:25 Personal Struggles and Relationship Challenges

17:44 The Impact of Health Issues

20:08 Sharing Poetry: 'Man in the Mirror'

23:19 The Brutal Honesty of the Book

24:41 The Importance of Therapy and Self-Care

28:01 Embracing Vulnerability and Seeking Support

29:15 Living in the Moment and Future Aspirations

31:05 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Connect with Colton

TikTok -- https://www.tiktok.com/@poetry.by.colton

Buy the book "Let's Talk About It" -- https://poetrybycolton.myshopify.com/

Resources

Metallica, The Unnamed Feeling -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NTU6NLovI_Q

Man in the Mirror -- https://open.spotify.com/track/6pDpFbSnlnvIhxnOd2FzmJ?si=f30114fba6794e80

Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:

Book a Clarity Call with Andy and get clear on your goals, what's in your way, and what you can do about it at https://theandygrant.com/talk

Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant

Andy Grant Website | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!

Real Men Feel Website | http://realmenfeel.org

RMF Facebook Group | http://realmenfeel.org/group

YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel

#RealMenFeel ep 354